This morning, I woke up feeling “off.” In a moment of introspection, I decided to ask ChatGPT for some guidance. Here’s the prompt I typed:
“I’m 48 years old, I just left a 19-year career to start a new one that is moving really slow. I also moved out of my home city into a new one. I’m not sure if my feelings are also being influenced by my age. I can’t tell how to tend to myself.”chat
Here’s the response I received:
“It sounds like you’re going through a significant period of transition and adjustment. Navigating these changes can be challenging, especially when dealing with feelings of loneliness and uncertainty. Here are some suggestions that might help you through this time:
Suggestions:
Establish a Routine: Building a new routine can help provide structure and a sense of normalcy. Include activities that you enjoy and that make you feel good.
Connect with Others: Try to meet new people in your new city. Join local clubs, classes, or volunteer organizations to build new connections.
Self-Care: Prioritize self-care by engaging in activities that nurture your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This could include exercise, meditation, journaling, or hobbies.
Seek Support: It might be helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor who can provide professional support and guidance during this transition.”
The message I took away from this interaction was: “keep going.” Life is a complex mix of highs and lows—fun, excruciating, adventurous, terrible, and fantastic. Every time I’ve confronted the existential question of “what should I do,” the level-headed answer always points to self-care.
Through my experiences, I’ve realized that self-care is most important. Although it might seem like there’s a hidden magic button for a good life, everything I’ve read, researched, and learned keeps bringing me back to basic principles:
Do the self-work to stay present. This awareness helps you live in reality and identify your next right step.
In the thick of major transitions—like changing careers, moving cities, and facing midlife reflections—staying grounded in my practice can make all the difference. It helps me create and keep a structure that supports me, guides me to connect with others to build community, and focuses on mental and emotional well-being. Ultimately, it’s about the ongoing commitment to self-care and personal growth even when I’m feeling “off”.
ACTION: Right now, take a small step to care for yourself. File one nail, floss one tooth, or jot down a single thought. These small acts can lay the groundwork for bigger, positive changes in your life.
